Morays Eager To Finally Have Home Advantage

MIAMI — After opening the season with two wins on the road, the Miami Morays are happy to get a chance to play in front of a home crowd.

The Morays, of the National Indoor Football League, face the Lubbock Gunslingers (0-2) at 7 tonight at Miami Arena.

"I'm really happy about playing home for a change," coach Larry Little said. "We played well on the road but not as well as I know we can play. Hopefully we can play well and win a football game."

Morays quarterback Derrick Vickers and receiver Ethenic Sands have combined for more than 150 yards and four touchdowns. Last week against Lakeland, Vickers connected on a 39-yard pass to Sands to give the Morays the go-ahead touchdown.

"Both of those guys have done a great job," Little said.

Sands, a former University of Miami player, is looking forward to playing at home.

"It feels real good to come out here and get this shot to play at the Miami Arena," Sands said. "We want to get fans to come out and support us in helping us bring a championship to Miami."

Vickers, who was one of 15 quarterbacks who tried out for the Morays, completed 21 of 26 passes for 226 yards and four touchdowns against Lakeland.

Sands expects extra attention from the Gunslingers.

"I expect them to double-team me and if I have to make a play on two people, I will," Sands said. "I'm trying to dominate the minor leagues to show the scouts I can play."

On defense, Jimmy Williams, a Bethune-Cookman graduate, leads the Morays with 17 tackles and he recovered a fumble for a touchdown against Lakeland.

LUBBOCK GUNSLINGERS (0-2) VS. MIAMI MORAYS (2-0)

What: National Indoor Football League.

When/where: 7 p.m., Miami Arena.

Tickets: $5-$150. Available at Miami Arena box office, through Ticketmaster at www.ticketmaster.com, or by phone at 954-523-3309 or 305-358-5885.

Of note: First 2,500 fans receive a Morays pennant. Postgame picture and autograph session with players and coaches.